1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1974 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (27 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1540 kg more than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mitsubishi Minica is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. (28 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mitsubishi Minica. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1974 Mitsubishi Minica has manual transmission. 1974 Mitsubishi Minica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1974 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A | Minica |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 28 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2010 mm |
